In explaining his optimism, Blinken argued that the Moscow’s support to Assad, in the form of airstrikes, arms transfers, and financial assistance, has “increased Russia’s leverage” over Assad, the strongman whose departure will be necessary to end the conflict.  “He owes them,” Blinken said.

He also noted that Russia’s intervention in Syria has trapped the Kremlin into a fight that it can’t sustain politically, financially or strategically.

“Russia is perceived now with being in alliance with Assad, Hezbollah and Iran, and thus against the interests of the vast majority of the Muslim world,” he said.

“The risk there is that its own community, 15 percent of Russia is comprised of Sunni Muslims, will be enraged, and other communities from Central Asia to the Balkans will take it out on Russia,” Blinken said.